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I was at the Wendy’s in Newmarket across from the Upper Canada Mall waiting to pick up an order for SkipTheDishes. There was a young lady in line about 13 to 15 years old, at best guess. Brown hair and wearing glasses. She was the only person in line and placed her order.
A few minutes go by and I can see her looking at me from the corner of my eye. I turn and look at her and she’s holding $5 in her hand. She says, “This is for you… it’s a tip… I know you guys don’t make much money and I’m doing OK, so here you go.”
I was floored. Such a young lady being so sensitive and aware, knowing the struggles of a food delivery person… being considerate enough to think this way… especially at such a young age…just wow.
Although financially I may be struggling and every penny helps. I am back to work and will slowly be climbing the mountain I built …from the dirt in the hole I dug… but I know I will get there.
I turned down the “tip.”
We spoke for a few minutes and she told me today was her birthday and that she just wanted to do something nice for her birthday. I told her how amazing she was and how grateful I was for the offer. I also told her if I didn’t think I’d clear out the busy Tim Hortons/Wendys joint restaurant, I would sing her happy birthday. She laughed… I took my order and left.
On my way to drop off the order, I realized something, I missed my chance. I should have embarrassed the hell out of myself and sang happy birthday to this young lady inside the restaurant. I shouldn’t care what everyone thought. I decided to go back after completing the order and do it, but she was gone.
If anyone knows this girl with a birthday today (I heard her call her friend who was with her “Leah”), tell her thank you for being such an awesome young woman and based on the short interaction I had with her, I know she will go far in life.
I am hoping as many people as possible wish her a happy birthday in the meantime. She deserves it. It was me who got the gift… not the $5 but the offer and showing me that some people are truly amazing and still never cease to amaze me.
Thank you…young lady, you made my day. I hope one day you see this and know how your good deed today made mine. I’ll make sure next time I sing you happy birthday.
You’re a true rockstar.
Happy birthday 
Jay Kirkwood, Richmond Hill
